Party appetizers are a great way to kick off any get-together and keep your guests satisfied before the main course. An array of bite-sized snacks will make everyone feel welcome as they arrive and give them something to nibble on as they mingle. The key is to choose options that are easy to make and share, visually appealing, and packed with flavor.
A classic choice that always pleases a crowd are bruschetta. Simply toast slices of bread, then top them with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic and olive oil. For extra flavor, add balsamic glaze or roasted red peppers. This simple but colorful dish is perfect for any season.
Another easy favorite are mini quiches. Whip up a batch of flaky pastry crusts or pie crusts and fill them with a mixture of cheese, vegetables like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, and beaten eggs. Pop them in the oven until the filling is set. Your guests will appreciate the variety of flavors in each bite.
For a lighter option, try an assortment of dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, olive tapenade or artichoke dip served with pita wedges, crackers and crudité. The fresh vegetables provide crunch and nutrition, while the dips pack lots of flavor without weighing anyone down.
If you want to get a bit more creative, make your own sushi rolls. Pick up sushi-grade tuna or salmon, sushi rice, nori seaweed sheets and a bamboo mat. Place rice and fish or avocado and cucumber in the middle of nori sheets and roll them up tightly. Slice into bite-sized pieces and top with wasabi, pickled ginger and soy sauce. Impress your guests with this fun DIY appetizer.
For extra decadence, serve a cheese platter with a variety of soft cheeses like brie, camembert and goat cheese alongside hard cheeses such as aged cheddar or blue cheese. Include nuts, fresh and dried fruit for balance and crackers or a fresh baguette for serving. Your guests will appreciate this upscale option.
Mini frittatas are another great make-ahead choice. Simply whisk together eggs, cheese, vegetables like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes and pour into a muffin tin coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 F until the frittatas are set. Let cool, then pop out of the tin and serve at room temperature.
Bacon-wrapped dates are a sweet and savory crowd pleaser. Pit large dates and fill the cavity with almond pieces or goat cheese. Wrap each date in a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Bake at 400 F, turning once, until the bacon is crisp, about 15-20 minutes. The natural sugars in the dates pair perfectly with the salty bacon.
Caprese skewers are simple to make but burst with fresh flavor. Thread mozzarella balls, grape tomatoes, basil leaves and olives onto wooden skewers. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. The classic Italian flavors of this simple appetizer will be a hit at your next party.
For a hearty option, serve mini meatballs in a flavorful sauce. Combine ground beef or turkey with egg, breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning and roll into bite-sized balls. Simmer in your favorite pasta sauce until the meatballs are cooked through. Provide toothpicks for easy eating and extra napkins. Your guests will appreciate the comforting, familiar flavors.
Shrimp cocktail is a classic party appetizer for a reason. For easy serving, arrange cooked shrimp, lemon wedges and cocktail sauce in martini glasses or on a platter. The refreshing, zesty flavors are sure to satisfy any crowd.
Stuffed mushrooms are earthy and satisfying. Clean medium mushrooms caps, then fill them with a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic and herbs and cheese such as goat cheese or cream cheese. Arrange on a baking sheet and broil in the oven just until the filling is hot and bubbly. The mushrooms provide a natural edible bowl for the flavorful filling.
For a spicy option, make your own buffalo chicken wings. Deep fry or bake chicken wings until cooked through. Toss in a mixture of Frank’s RedHot sauce and melted butter. Provide celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for cooling dipping. The fiery and flavorful wings are always a party favorite.
With an array of quick and easy appetizers, you’ll give your guests a tasty welcome and set the perfect casual, social tone for your gathering. Provide small plates and napkins to make it easy for people to sample multiple options as they mingle and chat. Your spread of delicious bites is sure to please any crowd.
